The All New Must Have Orange 430

A splendid debut for a remarkably talented author-illustrator.

Kevin Steinberger, Magpies

The All New Must Have Orange 430 by Michael Speechley is a picture book that is desperately needed in today’s world. With consumerism running riot, and children and adults a like falling victim to the ‘must-keep-up-with-the-Jones’ mentality day in and day out, it’s a relief to see a picture book that fills a much needed, but unnoticed gap in the market.

Never Ending Bookshelf

This book has a brilliant message about the effect that wanting to have so many things has on the environment. It explores the topic in a very clever, original way. The illustrations are highly detailed and Michael Speechley is clearly talented as both an author and illustrator.

Michelle, In the Good Books blog

I think this book is unique, thought provoking and well layered.

Little Big Reads

The All New Must Have Orange 430 picture book provides an important insight for families and for classes into the effects of advertising and consumerism in our world. Take notice of the signs and labels in the background. The book encourages discussion about the difference between needs and wants, responsibility with money and the effects of advertising. A most important message for newly arrived consumers at a loss to repel the overtures of advertisers, this is an equally compelling book for all readers.

Fran Knight, Read Plus

The All New Must Have Orange 430 is such a clever, clever book and one that requires multiple readings in order to deeply comprehend and internalise the messages and appreciate the sophisticated visual literacy elements in the illustrations. This is a book that young readers can, will and should return to over many years, as it’s themes of consumerism and ‘making do with less’ are universal, topical and ever-present.

Children's Books Daily